DAFT visa Netherlands 2026: Complete guide for American entrepreneurs & freelancers

Name: NLCompass
Address: Netherlands, NL
Price range: Free

Low-barrier visa for US citizens with just €4,500 capital investment

Last updated: February 9, 2026Verified February 2026

Quick summary

The Dutch-American Friendship Treaty (DAFT) visa is the most accessible route for US citizens to live and work independently in the Netherlands. Unlike traditional work visas requiring high salaries or complex points systems, DAFT lets Americans start businesses with just €4,500 in starting capital, no language requirement, and a straightforward process.

Bottom line: If you're an American entrepreneur, freelancer, or consultant, DAFT offers a 2-year residence permit (renewable) with the flexibility to build a business on your terms. Typical timeline: 4-6 months from application to approval.

1. What is the DAFT visa?
2. DAFT eligibility requirements
3. Business structure decision: ZZP vs BV
4. The €4,500 capital investment
5. DAFT application process step-by-step
6. Bringing family members
7. Tax implications & 30% ruling
8. DAFT renewal after 2 years
9. Common mistakes to avoid
10. Real case studies
11. Costs & timeline
12. FAQ

What is the DAFT visa?

The Dutch-American Friendship Treaty (DAFT) is a 1956 trade agreement that gives US citizens special immigration privileges to the Netherlands. Rather than competing with other nationalities using a points-based system, Americans can obtain a 2-year residence and work permit by:

Starting a Dutch business
Depositing €4,500 as business capital
Passing basic security checks
Proving you can support yourself

Key facts

Available to: US citizens only (must hold valid US passport)
Visa length: 2 years (renewable)
Employment type: Self-employed only (cannot be an employee for another company)
Language requirement: None for initial visa
Family: Spouse, partner, children can join
30% ruling: Accessible if you meet salary thresholds (€69,000+ per year as of 2026)

Why DAFT is so popular among Americans

Lower capital than other countries

€4,500 vs €10,000+ in other EU countries

No salary requirements initially

Income only matters at renewal (not upfront)

No language requirement

Unlike most European countries

Fast processing

Typically 8-12 weeks from application to approval

Flexible business models

Freelancers, consultants, coaches, SaaS founders, agencies

Family friendly

Spouse and children can join you

DAFT eligibility requirements

To qualify for DAFT, you must meet ALL of these criteria:

Requirement	Details
Nationality	Valid US passport (required for the treaty)
Business Ownership	Own at least 25% of a Dutch business OR be a sole proprietor (ZZP)
Capital Deposit	Deposit €4,500 into a Dutch business bank account (must remain during permit validity)
Business Registration	Register business with Dutch Chamber of Commerce (KvK)
Criminal History	No serious criminal record or security risk to the Netherlands
Immigration Record	No illegal stays in the Netherlands or dishonesty in previous Dutch immigration matters
Health Insurance	Proof of valid Dutch health insurance
Financial Capacity	Sufficient means to support yourself (no specific minimum at initial application)

Important clarifications

"Can I work for another Dutch company while on DAFT?"

No. DAFT is strictly for self-employment. You cannot work as an employee for a Dutch company while on DAFT. If you want to be an employee, you need a different permit (Highly Skilled Migrant visa).

"Does my DAFT business have to be successful immediately?"

No. Your business does not need to generate income to receive the initial DAFT permit. The IND does NOT check your income during the first application. However, at renewal after 2 years, you must show sustainable income (minimum €1,657/month from month 7 onwards).

"Can I work remotely for a US company on DAFT?"

Yes, this is permitted. Many DAFT holders work with US clients while registered as self-employed in the Netherlands. However, ensure proper tax reporting in both countries (consult a tax professional experienced with US/NL taxation).

Business structure decision: ZZP vs BV

The first major decision is which business structure to use. Both work under DAFT, but they have different implications for taxes, liability, and long-term plans.

Option 1: ZZP (Eenmanszaak / Sole Proprietorship)

You operate as an individual freelancer/contractor, registered with the Dutch Chamber of Commerce.

Aspect	Details
Setup Cost	€50-150 (filing fee with KvK)
Setup Time	1-2 weeks (done in Netherlands after arrival or with BSN)
Liability	⚠️ Unlimited (your personal assets are at risk if business fails)
30% Ruling	❌ NOT eligible (no employer-employee relationship exists)
Complexity	Very simple (minimal bookkeeping requirements)
Best For	Freelancers, consultants, coaches, small service providers, testing an idea

Option 2: BV (Private Limited Company)

A separate legal entity (your business is a company that you own and work for as an employee).

Aspect	Details
Setup Cost	€800-1,500 (notary fees + filing)
Setup Time	1-2 weeks (can be done remotely via notary before arrival)
Liability	✅ Limited (personal assets protected; company liable)
30% Ruling	✅ ELIGIBLE (you employ yourself; can earn 30% tax-free on qualifying salary)
Complexity	More complex (requires bookkeeper, annual accounts, corporate tax filing)
Best For	Long-term business, accessing 30% ruling, contracts with large corporates, significant income potential

BV + 30% ruling advantage

If you expect to earn €69,000+ per year, a BV allows you to:

• Employ yourself through your company
• Receive 30% of your gross salary tax-free
• Keep the remainder as company profit (taxed at corporate rate ~19%)
• Example: €100,000 annual salary = €30,000 tax-free + €70,000 taxable income

Decision matrix: Which should you choose?

Choose ZZP if:

• Testing a business idea or market
• Solo freelancer/consultant (not planning to scale)
• Income will be under €69,000/year
• Want minimal administrative burden
• Plan to potentially switch to BV later

Choose BV if:

• Long-term business commitment
• Expect income over €69,000/year
• Working with corporate clients who prefer companies
• Want liability protection
• Plan to hire employees later
• Value tax optimization opportunities

The €4,500 capital investment

One of DAFT's biggest attractions is the low capital requirement: just €4,500. However, there are specific rules about how this works.

What is the €4,500?

The €4,500 is business starting capital, not a visa fee. It proves you have financial means to establish a business and supports yourself while getting started. This money belongs to your business and can be used for legitimate business expenses.

How to deposit the €4,500

Timeline: You have up to 6 months after receiving your DAFT approval to meet this requirement. You don't need the money before you apply.

For BV (Private Limited Company):

Open business bank account (can be online before arrival with banks like Bunq, Wise, or Revolut)
Make a capital contribution deposit of €4,500
Obtain proof: Bank statement showing the deposit + Opening balance sheet from a certified Dutch accountant (BECON registered)
Payment must be documented as capital contribution (not a loan)

For ZZP (Sole Proprietorship):

Get your BSN number first (register at municipality)
Open business bank account in your name
Deposit €4,500 from your personal account
Obtain proof: Bank statement showing the deposit + Simple statement from accountant or bank confirming the €4,500 exists

Can you use the €4,500 after depositing it?

Yes, but with caution. Once your DAFT permit is approved, you can use the €4,500 for legitimate business expenses (equipment, software, marketing, professional services). However:

• The €4,500 must be available (in the account) when IND approves you
• For renewal after 2 years, the IND checks that you've maintained business capital (ensure your account doesn't go below €0 for extended periods)
• Keep clear records of business expenses

DAFT application process step-by-step

Phase 1: Preparation (Before you leave home) — 4-6 weeks

Step 1.1: Decide on business structure

Determine if ZZP or BV makes sense for your situation. If choosing BV, start the incorporation process now.

Step 1.2: Gather US documents

• Valid US passport (must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned move)
• Birth certificate (original or certified copy, will need apostille)
• Police background check (can be obtained from your state; no FBI check required)
• Apostille requirements: Birth certificate and other official US documents must be apostilled by your Secretary of State (cost: typically $15-30 per document)

Step 1.3: If choosing BV — Incorporate now

Contact a Dutch notary to incorporate your BV (can be done entirely online, cost: €800-1,500, takes 1-2 weeks).

Step 1.4: Health insurance

Arrange provisional health insurance that covers you from your arrival date (€80-250/month depending on coverage).

Step 1.5: Draft business plan (optional but recommended)

Although technically optional, having a 1-2 page business plan helps if IND asks for clarification.

Phase 2: Arrival in Netherlands (Visa-free for 90 days) — 1-2 weeks

If you're a US citizen, you can enter the Netherlands visa-free for up to 90 days under the Schengen agreement. Use this time to establish residency.

Step 2.1: Register with municipality (Gemeente)

• Go to your local municipality office
• Bring: Passport, proof of accommodation (rental agreement or letter from landlord)
• Receive: BSN number (Burgerservicenummer / Citizen Service Number)
• Takes 1-2 weeks for the BSN to be issued | Cost: Free

Step 2.2: Open business bank account

Now that you have a BSN, open a business account with your chosen bank (takes 1-2 weeks for account approval).

Step 2.3: For ZZP — Register with Chamber of Commerce

Make appointment with local KvK office. Register as freelancer/ZZP. Cost: €50-150. Takes: 1-2 weeks.

Phase 3: File DAFT application with IND — 6-8 weeks

Step 3.1: Prepare complete application package

Personal Documents:

✓ Completed IND application form for self-employed persons
✓ Valid passport (photocopy of all pages)
✓ Apostilled birth certificate
✓ Police background check from your state (apostilled)
✓ Proof of health insurance

Business Documents:

✓ KvK registration certificate (if ZZP) OR incorporation deed (if BV)
✓ Proof of €4,500 deposit OR timeline for deposit
✓ Bank statement (if you've already made the deposit)
✓ Opening balance sheet from certified accountant (if deposited)
✓ Business plan (optional but helpful)

Step 3.2: Calculate IND fees (2026)

• Main applicant (you): €423
• Spouse/registered partner: €254
• Child (under 18): €85

Step 3.3: Submit application to IND

Online via IND Digital Loket (recommended for faster processing and instant confirmation).

Phase 4: IND review & decision — 8-12 weeks

IND reviews your application for completeness, conducts background check, reviews business viability, and makes decision. Typically, you'll receive a response within 8-12 weeks of submission.

Common requests for additional info:

• "Provide proof of the €4,500 deposit"
• "Provide business plan details"
• "Provide proof of address registration with gemeente"
• "Provide updated health insurance documentation"

Phase 5: Final steps after DAFT approval — 2-4 weeks

Step 5.1: Receive your V-number

The IND will notify you of approval. You'll receive your V-number (residence permit authorization number).

Step 5.2: Finalize €4,500 deposit (if not already done)

You now have 6 months to ensure €4,500 is in your business account and obtain proof.

Step 5.3: Register with municipality (if not already done)

Bring V-number approval letter to gemeente. They will issue your residence permit card (migrantenpas).

Step 5.4: Get your DigiD (Digital ID)

Required for accessing government services, banking, taxes. Register at DigiD.nl (takes 2-5 business days).

Bringing family members

Eligible family members

Under DAFT, the following can join you:

Family Member	Requirements	Special Notes
Spouse (married)	Marriage certificate (apostilled), age 18+	Fastest process; no minimum income requirement
Registered partner	Partnership certificate (apostilled), age 18+	Must have officially registered partnership
Unmarried partner	Single status declaration, proof of durable relationship (6+ months together)	Requires living together evidence; slightly longer process
Children under 18	Birth certificate (apostilled) + proof of guardianship	Dependent children qualify automatically

Family member work restrictions

Spouse/Partner:

• Can begin working immediately AFTER residence permit is approved
• Must apply for work permit separately (separate application to IND)
• Can also self-employ under their own DAFT permit (if also US citizen)
• Delays are common: 1-2 months for work permit after residence permit approval

Children:

• Cannot work until age 15 (Dutch labor law)
• After 15: Can work part-time during school year
• Can work full-time during holidays

For more detailed information on bringing your partner to the Netherlands, see our family reunification guide (covers 3 visa pathways, income requirements, and timelines), partner visa guide, and trailing spouse guide.

Tax implications & 30% ruling

Do I pay taxes on DAFT?

Short answer: Yes, you pay Dutch income tax on your business income. HOWEVER, if you meet the 30% ruling criteria, you can receive 30% of your gross salary tax-free.

Understanding the 30% ruling

The 30% ruling (30% facility / Expatriaatregeling) is a Dutch tax benefit specifically designed to attract skilled workers from abroad.

Eligibility (Must meet ALL):

1. You've been recruited from abroad OR transferred within a multinational
2. You work in the Netherlands (on DAFT, you're self-employed, so this is YES)
3. You earn a minimum salary of €69,000/year (2026 threshold; €66,000 in 2025)
4. You worked/lived more than 150km from Dutch borders for 16+ months before starting work in NL
5. You must have a valid residence permit (DAFT qualifies)

Real example: BV + 30% ruling

You expect €100,000 annual business profit with BV + 30% ruling:

• Salary to yourself: €70,000
• 30% of €70,000: €21,000 tax-free salary
• 70% of €70,000: €49,000 taxable salary
• Income tax: ~€18,300
• Company profit: €30,000 (after salary)
• Corporate tax: ~€5,700
• Tax savings vs without 30% ruling: ~€10,600/year

DAFT + 30% ruling combinations

If you choose ZZP:

You cannot use the 30% ruling as ZZP (no employer-employee relationship). ZZP owners pay full income tax on business profits. Not ideal if you expect high income.

If you choose BV:

You can employ yourself through your company. Salary from BV to you can qualify for 30% ruling. BV profit (after paying your salary) is taxed at corporate rate (~19%). Ideal if you expect income over €69,000/year.

For more detailed information on the 30% ruling for freelancers, see our 30% ruling for freelancers guide.

DAFT renewal after 2 years

Your first DAFT permit is issued for exactly 2 years. To continue living and working in the Netherlands, you must renew.

Renewal requirements

The IND will assess you on THREE criteria:

1. €4,500 capital remains available

Your business bank account must show €4,500+ is still present. Bank statement at time of renewal application should show the fund available.

2. Positive cash flow (annual profit)

Your business must show positive net income for both years 1 and 2. ZZP: Income from business minus business expenses must be positive (P&L statement). BV: Company profit and loss statement must show profit.

3. Sufficient sustainable income

You must be able to sustain yourself from your Dutch business. IND minimum: €1,657/month (2025 threshold; adjusts annually for inflation). Income must be from month 7-24 of your first permit.

What if your income is below €1,657/month?

The IND may still approve renewal if:

• Business is genuinely trying to succeed but hasn't reached profitability yet
• You have significant savings to support yourself
• You can demonstrate growth trajectory and business plan adjustments

However, the threshold is strict. Below €1,657/month, you're at risk of renewal denial.

Renewal timeline & process

6-3 months before expiration:

Gather documents: P&L statement for both years, bank statements showing €4,500 capital, income/salary documentation, proof of ongoing business operations.

3 months before expiration:

Contact IND or file renewal application. Submit same application form with updated information. Processing typically takes 2-3 months. You should receive decision before permit expires.

Extension of benefits:

If approved, your renewed permit is for another 2 years. After 2 years of continuous DAFT, you become eligible for permanent residency (5-year path total). You can apply for Dutch citizenship after 5 years of DAFT + meeting language/integration requirements.

Common mistakes to avoid

Mistake 1: Not understanding ZZP cannot use 30% ruling

Many ZZP owners think they qualify for 30% ruling if earning €69,000+. They don't. The 30% ruling requires an employer-employee relationship. As a ZZP sole proprietor, there's no employment relationship.

The fix: If you want 30% ruling, incorporate a BV. BV employs you; you draw salary from the company. Salary qualifies for 30% ruling.

Mistake 2: Depositing €4,500, then immediately withdrawing it

Your business account needs to show the €4,500 was deposited. If it immediately goes to zero, the IND may question if it was a real capital investment.

The fix: Deposit €4,500, leave it in the account for at least 2-3 months, use it gradually for legitimate business expenses. At renewal, ensure the account doesn't show extended periods of €0.

Mistake 3: Not understanding "durable relationship" requirements for unmarried partners

The IND takes "durable relationship" seriously. Required proof: 6+ months cohabitation, shared bank account, joint travel, photos, statements from friends.

The fix: Gather evidence before applying. Get original or certified copies. If you just got together, wait 6 months before applying.

Mistake 4: Using personal account instead of business account for €4,500

The €4,500 must be in a business account in the company's name, not your personal account.

The fix: Open the business account BEFORE depositing €4,500. Ensure it's clearly labeled as a business account. Get the accountant letter confirming this was a capital contribution.

Mistake 5: Not separating business and personal finances

Mixing personal and business money makes renewal difficult. IND will struggle to assess if your business is truly sustaining you.

The fix: Separate business account, all business income to business account, pay yourself salary or distributions (documented), business expenses from business account only, work with bookkeeper from day one.

Mistake 6: Working as an employee for a Dutch company while on DAFT

DAFT explicitly prohibits this. If discovered, your DAFT can be revoked and you could face deportation.

The fix: DAFT is for self-employment ONLY. If you want to be an employee, you need HSM (Highly Skilled Migrant) visa. You can work for your own company or your own clients.

Mistake 7: Ignoring Box 3 wealth tax after getting 30% ruling

30% ruling users now pay Dutch wealth tax (Box 3) starting 2025. Example: €200,000 savings = ~€4,140/year tax.

The fix: Understand Box 3 applies to you. Plan for ~2.8% annual tax on wealth above €51,396. Set aside money for this tax.

Mistake 8: Not obtaining apostille for US documents

Foreign official documents must be apostilled (a certification that the document is authentic). Without it, Dutch authorities won't accept it.

The fix: Get birth certificate apostille from your Secretary of State office. Order background check apostille at the same time. Takes 2-4 weeks; order early. Cost: ~$15-30 per document. Apostille cannot be older than 6 months when submitting.

Mistake 9: Moving to Netherlands without pre-arranged health insurance

You cannot get a DAFT permit without proof of health insurance. Trying to arrange it after arrival causes delays.

The fix: Arrange health insurance before you leave the US. Choose a provider and get proof of coverage from your arrival date. Include in your DAFT application.

Mistake 10: Not keeping good business records from day one

At renewal, IND wants professional P&L statements. Sloppy records mean paying accountant extra to reconstruct them.

The fix: Hire bookkeeper from month 1 (€50-150/month). Keep all invoices, receipts, business expenses organized. Monthly or quarterly accounting reviews.

Real case studies

Case study 1: Freelance software developer (ZZP route)

Profile: 32-year-old US citizen, freelancing in San Francisco. €80,000/year income from US clients. Single, no dependents. Wants to live in Amsterdam for lifestyle.

Timeline & costs:

• Preparation: 4 weeks, €150 (apostille)
• Arrival & BSN: 2 weeks, €200
• Register ZZP: 1 week, €150
• File DAFT: 1 week, €423
• IND processing: 10 weeks
• Total: ~5 months, €923 total

Tax situation: Income €80,000. ZZP cannot use 30% ruling. Pays full Dutch income tax: ~€26,000/year (32.5% effective rate).

Lessons: ZZP is simple and fast for freelancers. However, 30% ruling tax benefit not accessible. If income grows, consider switching to BV in year 2.

Case study 2: US entrepreneur + spouse (BV route)

Profile: 35-year-old US citizen, wanted to start SaaS business. Married to 33-year-old (non-US, EU national). Both want to move to Netherlands. Expected revenue: €150,000+ in year 1.

Timeline & costs:

• Incorporate BV remotely: 2 weeks, €1,200
• Apostilles & health insurance: 3 weeks, €300
• Arrival & setup: €2,000
• BSN registration: 2 weeks, €100
• File DAFT (main + spouse): 1 week, €677 (€423 + €254)
• IND processing: 12 weeks
• Total: ~5-6 months, €4,177 total

Tax situation year 1: Business revenue €180,000. Net profit €140,000. Salary to himself €90,000. 30% ruling on €90,000 salary: €27,000 tax-free. Total tax: €33,000 (~18% effective rate on €180k revenue).

Lessons: BV + 30% ruling offers significant tax advantages for profitable businesses. Family members can be productive contributors. Successfully scaling a business in Netherlands is viable on DAFT.

Case study 3: Remote consultant (ZZP→BV conversion)

Profile: 28-year-old US citizen, management consultant. Remote work for 2-3 client companies in Europe. Testing if can build sustainable business before big commitment.

Year 1 strategy: Started with ZZP to test market. Revenue €75,000, net income €72,000. Total costs: €723.

Year 2: Converted ZZP → BV (cost €1,200-1,500 with accountant). Revenue €95,000. With BV + 30% ruling, saved ~€3,300/year in taxes vs staying ZZP.

Lessons: Start lean (ZZP) if testing market viability. Convert to BV when income justifies it. Tax planning pays off quickly. Flexible approach reduces financial risk while building.

Costs & timeline summary

Total cost of getting DAFT (2026)

Expense	Cost	Notes
Document Preparation
Apostille for birth certificate	$25	US Secretary of State
Apostille for background check	$25	Your state
Subtotal Documents	$150-250
Business Setup
ZZP registration (if choosing ZZP)	€100-150	Chamber of Commerce fee
BV incorporation (if choosing BV)	€800-1,500	Notary + filing fees
Health insurance (3 months)	€400-600	Required for visa approval
Subtotal Business	€500-750 (ZZP) or €1,300-2,250 (BV)
IND Fees
Main applicant	€423	Per IND fee schedule 2026
Spouse/partner	€254	If included
Per child under 18	€85	If included
Subtotal IND Fees	€423-800+	Depends on family size
Netherlands Setup
Accommodation deposit	€1,000-2,000	Refundable; first 1-2 months
Subtotal Living	€2,200-5,300	One-time setup
TOTAL DAFT VISA COSTS	€4,600-11,000	Depends on structure & family

Note: The €4,500 capital deposit is NOT an expense (it's your business capital that you keep and can use for operating expenses).

Timeline summary

Phase	Duration	What Happens
Preparation	4-6 weeks	Gather documents, decide business structure
Pre-Arrival Setup	2-4 weeks	BV incorporation (if needed), insurance
Arrival & Registration	1-2 weeks	Get BSN, open bank account, register business
DAFT Application	1 week to submit	File all documents to IND
IND Processing	8-12 weeks	IND reviews, background check, decision
Post-Approval	2-4 weeks	Finalize permit, register with municipality
TOTAL	4-6 months	From decision to approval to residency

Fastest path: 4 months (if you already have documents ready and IND processes quickly)

Typical path: 5-6 months

Longest path: 6+ months (if you need to gather documents, have complications, or IND is backlogged)

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to speak Dutch to get DAFT?

No. DAFT has no Dutch language requirement for the initial permit. However, you'll need Dutch language skills for daily life, business, and especially for banking and government services. Most expats take a Dutch course (part-time or intensive) in their first 6 months. After 5 years with DAFT, you'll need to pass a Dutch language exam (A2 level) to apply for permanent residency or citizenship.

Can I get DAFT with a criminal record?

Depends on the severity. Minor misdemeanors (traffic tickets, small fines) are usually fine. Serious crimes (felony convictions, fraud, violence) will likely result in denial. The IND conducts a background check. If you have concerns, consult with an immigration lawyer before applying.

Can I work for a Dutch company as an employee on DAFT?

No. DAFT is strictly for self-employment. You cannot work as an employee for a Dutch company while on DAFT. If you want to be an employee, you need the Highly Skilled Migrant (HSM) visa instead.

If I choose ZZP, can I switch to BV later?

Yes. The conversion is called a 'continuation' where your business is transferred from ZZP to BV. This is relatively straightforward with the help of a bookkeeper. Cost: €1,000-1,500. You keep your business history and client relationships.

Can I borrow the €4,500 from someone?

Technically yes, but with caution. The €4,500 must be deposited as equity/capital, not a loan. If it's a loan, you might face issues at renewal if IND questions where the capital came from. If you borrow, make sure it's documented as a gift or capital contribution, not a loan.

Can I use the €4,500 after depositing it?

Yes, but with caution. Once your DAFT permit is approved, you can use the €4,500 for legitimate business expenses (equipment, software, marketing, professional services). However, the €4,500 must be available (in the account) when IND approves you. For renewal after 2 years, the IND checks that you've maintained business capital (ensure your account doesn't go below €0 for extended periods).

What happens if my business doesn't make money in year 1?

Renewal becomes difficult but not impossible. The minimum threshold is €1,657/month from month 7 onwards. If your business is barely profitable or not profitable in year 1, you'll need to show growth trajectory (improving in year 2), significant savings to support yourself, or valid reasons for low income (startup phase, market conditions). However, IND may still deny renewal.

I'm a US citizen. Do I pay US taxes AND Dutch taxes?

Yes. As a US citizen, you have to file US taxes on worldwide income (FBAR/FATCA). You also pay Dutch taxes as a resident. However, there's a US-Netherlands tax treaty that prevents double taxation. You'll get a foreign tax credit for Dutch taxes paid. You MUST work with a tax professional experienced in US-NL taxation.

Can I bring my spouse and children on DAFT?

Yes. Spouse (married), registered partner, and children under 18 can join you. You'll pay €254 for spouse/partner and €85 per child under 18 in IND fees. They apply alongside you or separately after you're approved. Your spouse can work after getting a work permit (separate application, 1-2 month wait).

How long does the DAFT application process take?

Typically 4-6 months from decision to approval to residency. This includes: 4-6 weeks preparation (gathering documents), 1-2 weeks arrival and BSN registration, 1 week to submit application, 8-12 weeks IND processing, and 2-4 weeks post-approval finalization.

For more FAQs, visit our comprehensive FAQ page.

Conclusion

The DAFT visa is one of the most accessible pathways for American entrepreneurs and freelancers to build a life and business in the Netherlands. With a modest €4,500 capital investment, no language requirement, and a straightforward process, thousands of Americans have successfully made the move.

Key takeaways

US citizenship is required (the DAFT treaty is exclusive to Americans)
Choose your business structure carefully (ZZP for simplicity, BV for scale and tax benefits)
Prepare documents early (apostilles and health insurance take time)
Plan for taxes from day one (US tax obligation remains; Dutch tax also applies)
Work with professionals (an accountant is essential; a tax advisor highly recommended)
Renewal is based on business success (ensure your business can sustain €1,657+/month income)
Family can join (spouses, partners, and children are eligible under family reunification)

The path from application to approved residence typically takes 4-6 months. Once approved, you'll join a thriving community of American entrepreneurs and freelancers building successful businesses in one of Europe's most dynamic countries.

Next steps

Decide on ZZP vs BV structure
Gather and apostille your US documents
Arrange health insurance
Make your initial IND application
Plan your accommodation and arrival
Hire an accountant for ongoing compliance
Build your Dutch business and life

Good luck with your DAFT application—welcome to the Netherlands!

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